Description
The Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe is an amazing fusion of sweet and savory flavors, inspired by classic Asian cuisine but with a tropical flair. This recipe takes familiar ingredients and elevates them with the sweetness of pineapple and the rich flavor of soy sauce. The balance of juicy chicken, sweet pineapple, and the heartiness of jasmine rice creates a comforting yet exotic dish that’s sure to impress.
The best part? This recipe is quick to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s versatile! Feel free to tweak it to your liking, whether that means swapping in your favorite veggies or using a different type of rice.
Ingredients
To prepare this comforting Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 ½ cups jasmine or basmati rice
- 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned, drained)
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup bell pepper, diced
- ½ cup onion, diced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
How to Make Pineapple Chicken and Rice
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Pineapple Chicken and Rice:
- Cook the Rice:
Cook the jasmine or basmati rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and set aside. - Sauté the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season them with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. - Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the diced onions, bell peppers, garlic, and ginger. Sauté the vegetables for 3-4 minutes, or until softened and fragrant. - Add the Sauce and Pineapple:
Stir in the soy sauce, honey, and chicken broth. Add the pineapple chunks to the skillet, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. - Combine and Serve:
Add the cooked chicken and rice back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Adjust the seasoning if necessary. - Serve and Garnish:
Garnish the dish with freshly chopped green onions and serve hot. Enjoy the sweet and savory blend of flavors!
Notes
- Chicken: Be sure to cut the chicken into even, bite-sized pieces to ensure quick and even cooking.
- Pineapple: Fresh pineapple will give the dish a more vibrant flavor, but canned pineapple works just as well.
- Soy Sauce: For a healthier option, use low-sodium soy sauce. This helps control the saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
- Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice both work well in this recipe, but feel free to experiment with brown rice or even quinoa for a healthier twist.